Lagos Unveils WASH Policy Implementation Plan

The Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Thursday unveiled the Lagos State Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) policy to effectively harness, and promote national and international focus on the Water and Sanitation sector to ensure rapid expansion of access to water infrastructure in the State.

 

Speaking during the unveiling ceremony, which was part of activities to commemorate the Y2024 World Water Day held at Marriott Hotel, GRA, Ikeja, the Governor said Water is essential for life and also a powerful force for fostering peace and cooperation among communities and individuals.

The Governor, represented by the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, said the theme for the 2024 World Water Day: “Water for Peace” underscores the critical role that water plays in building bridges between people.

The Governor said the launch of the  Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) Policy of Lagos State will serve as a guiding framework in the journey towards ensuring universal access to clean water and sanitation.

He added that the policy outlines a holistic approach to water management, encompassing strategies for conservation, pollution prevention, and equitable distribution.

He said the implementation of the WASH Policy, will reaffirm the government’s commitment to leaving no one behind in the quest for water security and peace through improving water infrastructure, enhancing sanitation services, and empowering communities to take ownership of their water resources.

He added that the ongoing activities of the Lagos Urban WASH programme, supported by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) exemplify the dedication of his administration to promoting water security and sustainability in urban areas through innovative interventions and partnerships.

He applauded the Lagos Urban Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (LUWASH) programme for currently supporting the Water Sector MDAs in various activities like the rehabilitation of five Micro/Mini Waterworks for Lagos Water Corporation(LWC).

He listed others including Capacity Building for the Lagos State Water Regulatory Commission (LASWARCO) and supporting the development of a business case for the Lagos State Wastewater Management Office (LSWMO).

“As we mark the year 2024 World Water Day, Let us pledge to work together, across borders and sectors, to ensure that water remains a source of unity rather than division”.

“Together, we can create a world where every drop of water contributes to the greater good, forging a path towards a peaceful and prosperous future for the residents”. he said.

Also at the event, the Special Adviser on Environment Mr Olakunle Rotimi-Akodu said the equitable and sustainable management of water resources has the potential to address many of the root causes of social and economic inequalities. He added that through investment in water infrastructure and technology, a condition for peace to flourish will be created.

He urged participants at the event to give a commitment to building a future where water is not seen as a source of division but as a symbol of unity, peace and shared prosperity.

In his remarks, the Minister of Water Resources and Environment Prof Joseph Utsev, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Water Resources, Alhaji Shehu Shinkafi, said Water is a fundamental human right that sustains life, nourishes communities and forms the foundation of society, adding that despite its abundance, access to clean water remains a luxury for many people.

He said the provision of good water has been confronted with unprecedented challenges ranging from escalating impacts of climate change to the growing demands of an expanding population.

He added that in all these, everyone must recognise the potential of water as a catalyst for cooperation, collaboration and peacebuilding.

Also present at the 2024 World Water Day Celebration were senior Government Officials, Academia, and Experts from Civil Society Organisations.